Understanding Non-Directory Information and FERPA: What You Need to Know

Understanding Non-Directory Information and FERPA: What You Need to Know

As a student or parent of a student, it’s important to have a clear understanding of what are non-directory information and FERPA. Non-directory information is confidential information that’s not made public by the educational institution, while FERPA stands for the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act. FERPA’s purpose is to protect the privacy of students and their educational records.

In this article, we’ll dive deeper into the concept of non-directory information, its implications for students, and how FERPA protects this information.

What is Non-Directory Information?

Non-directory information includes sensitive information, such as birth date, address, social security number, academic records, and disciplinary records of students. This information is usually only available to the student, the educational institution, and authorized personnel. However, non-directory information can be shared with third parties if the student or parent provides written consent or the request falls within certain exceptions.

Implications for Students:

Students might be required to provide non-directory information during the admission process, filling out financial aid applications, or receiving academic or financial assistance. The information provided is to be kept confidential and only used for the purpose it was collected. However, students should be aware that sensitive information might be shared with third parties in certain circumstances, such as when required by law or to prevent harm to the student or others.

How FERPA Protects Non-Directory Information:

FERPA is a federal law that safeguards the privacy of student education records. It applies to all educational institutions that receive funds from the U.S. Department of Education. FERPA provides the following rights to students:

– The right to inspect and review their education records
– The right to request corrections to their education records
– The right to consent to the disclosure of their education records
– The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education about FERPA violations

FERPA requires educational institutions to obtain written consent from students or parents before disclosing any non-directory information to a third party, with some exceptions, such as to comply with a judicial order or in case of health or safety emergencies.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, understanding non-directory information and FERPA is crucial for students and parents alike. Non-directory information is sensitive information that’s kept confidential and only shared with authorized personnel or third parties with written consent or under certain exceptions. FERPA is a law that safeguards the privacy of student education records, ensuring that sensitive information is not disclosed without the student’s consent or under specific circumstances. By being informed about their rights and the protections provided by FERPA, students can better control their educational information and make informed choices about sharing it.